NBA Decisions: Porter Avoids Suspension After Game 4 Skirmish

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Michael Porter Jr. of the Denver Nuggets will not face suspension for Game 5 after leaving the bench during a skirmish late in Game 4 against the Los Angeles Clippers on April 29. An NBA spokesperson confirmed the decision, stating he was quickly pulled back by assistant coaches.

The incident occurred just before halftime when a pushing match erupted involving Aaron Gordon and James Harden, resulting in a total of six technical fouls. Porter briefly left the bench but did not engage in the altercation.

According to NBA rules, players must remain in the immediate vicinity of their bench during altercations, with violations subject to a minimum one-game suspension and a fine. However, a league source indicated that Porter’s lack of involvement and the distance he traveled would be taken into account.

After the game, Porter expressed regret for stepping off the bench, stating he was unaware of the specific rule that could have put him in jeopardy of suspension. “I didn’t know the specific rule. I didn’t make it very far,” he said. “That’s what a team is for, to pull you back.”

The skirmish itself was deemed a non-threatening incident by Nuggets interim coach David Adelman, who noted that both teams were simply competing passionately. The fray began when Christian Braun committed an intentional foul on Harden, escalating the game’s tension.

With the series tied at 2-2, both teams prepare for the crucial Game 5 set to take place at Ball Arena on Tuesday at 8 p.m. MT. Porter, who scored 17 points in Game 4, will be crucial for the Nuggets as they aim to take the series lead.

As playoff intensity rises, players and coaches are aware of the strict disciplinary measures in place, making every action scrutinized. For Porter, the close call serves as a reminder of the rules governing player conduct during high-stakes games.